Flash Floods in Northeastern India Claim More Lives - 2004-10-10

Rescuers in northeastern India have recovered at least 23 more bodies after flash floods, bringing the death toll from new rains in the state of Assam to at least 88.

State officials say the deaths occurred in the western Goalpara district near the border with Bangladesh. They say authorities have opened more than 50 relief camps for people whose homes were inundated with rain water.

Officials warn there is a possibility that the death toll will climb as flood waters begin to recede.

More than 2,000 people have been killed by flooding and waterborne diseases in South Asia since monsoon rains began in June. Death tolls have been highest in India and Bangladesh.